BUDGET fashion chain Primark is hoping its ‘onesies’ will be a hit with chic Parisian shoppers next year as it ramps up European expansion to keep sales booming.

Primark, with 257 stores, posted a £238million first-half profit, up from £154million last time,

Owner Associated British Foods said the retailer would open its first stores in France either at Christmas or early in 2014, including a shopping centre on the outskirts of the capital.

The move follows a strong reception to its clothes at existing European stores in Germany, Holland, Belgium, Austria and Spain.

Chief executive George Weston said more stores were also planned in those countries with two-thirds of all openings next year being on the Continent.

He added: “European customers have taken enthusiastically to our brand. Regarding France, we want to start away from the bright lights of central Paris so we can learn more about the market.”

That news came as Primark, with 257 stores, posted a £238million first-half profit, up from £154million last time, helped by lower cotton prices and less promotions.

Total sales rose 24 per cent to £1.9billion driven by 15 new stores plus demand for its one-piece onesies and maxi skirts.

The move follows a strong reception to its clothes at existing European stores

European customers have taken enthusiastically to our brand.

George Weston, cheif executive

Same-store sales climbed seven per cent. Weston said second-half growth will be slower as cotton prices lifted and it opens fewer stores. ABF profits were up 25 per cent to £452million on sales up 10 per cent at £6.3billion.

Shares rose 149p to 1999p.

Its grocery business flourished helped by growing demand for Twinings tea in the US and a new Kingsmill breakfast range. But sugar profits fell as poor weather hit beet harvests in the UK.

Its agriculture arm was also dogged by a poor UK harvest, forcing the group to import more wheat from Europe – but profits still rose.

Analysts at Zolfo Cooper insisted the group’s success was “stellar” given it had no online offering and the state of the economy.